Turkey’s leading leisure carrier SunExpress has agreed to purchase up to 90 fuel-efficient single-aisle Boeing 737 MAX Jets.

The agreement means the carrier – a joint venture of Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa – will more than double its fleet over the next decade.

Announced at the Dubai Airshow, the agreement includes 28 737-8 and 17 737-10 models, with the opportunity for up to 45 additional 737 MAX airplanes.

Max Kownatzki, SunExpress chief executive, said: “Building on the resounding success of our strategy in the post-pandemic period, SunExpress is now poised for next-level growth to meet market demand and achieve a greater international footprint.

“Over the next decade, we will more than double our fleet, reaching a 150-aircraft fleet by 2033. Also, the addition of the 737-10, the newest 737 MAX plane with up to 230 seats, to our fleet will allow us to strengthen our capacity further.

“SunExpress is well-positioned for the future and will expand its network with a more fuel-efficient and environmentally sustainable aircraft fleet, while continuing to fulfil its role as Turkey’s tourism ambassador.”

SunExpress has stated that this new commitment will build on the airline’s previous order for 42 737-8s, nine of which have been delivered.

Stan Deal, president and chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “SunExpress’ continued commitment to the 737 MAX reflects its confidence in the airplane’s capability to meet demand from travellers to popular destinations across Turkey and beyond.

“The 737 MAX is a proven airplane on the SunExpress network, delivering unmatched fuel efficiency and reliability.”

The 737-8 seats 162 to 200 passengers depending on configuration and offers a range of up to 6,480km, while the 737-10, the largest 737 MAX model, offers a range of up to 5,740km.

The 737 MAX family reduces fuel use and carbon emissions by 20 per cent compared to the airplanes they replace.

SunExpress, which specialises in offering direct connections between Europe, Turkey and popular holiday destinations, states it is continuing to expand its Boeing 737 fleet to support its significant growth.

In 2022, the airline’s passenger count reached nearly 11 million across 175 routes to 30 countries.

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